Opening Day at Oregon Brewers Festival '12

The 25th Annual Oregon Brewers Festival kicked off two days ago. While the crowds were fairly light when we arrived at 12:30, it seemed busier than during previous years. I guess the "secret" about attending on opening day isn't such a secret anymore.

The weather was spectacular, people were having fun, lines were short, and cold beer was flowing! That sums it up! It was a great afternoon. By the time we left at 5pm, it was getting crowded and the lines were growing longer. But that's why we attended early.

If you feel like a deer in headlights when trying to select from the massive beer list, I've got a few ideas listed below. I've tasted each of these (not all during this visit) and provide a reason that you might want to try them. Other than this list, I only have two suggestions. First, drink water between each beer! More water = more beer. It's true. Second, get out of your box and sample styles you've never tasted before. Each taste is only 1 token, so you can't go wrong!